In today’s interconnected world, social media plays a significant role in our daily lives. From sharing updates about our experiences to connecting with friends and family, it’s a powerful tool. However, when it comes to personal injury claims, what you post on social media can have a far-reaching impact. In this blog, we’ll delve into the potential pitfalls of sharing information on social media after an accident and how it can affect your personal injury case.
Social Media Posts Can Be Used Against You in a Personal Injury Case
The Power of Posts
The content you post on social media can be used against you in a personal injury case. Seemingly innocent updates about your daily life, such as attending events or engaging in physical activities, can undermine your claims of injury. For instance, if you claim that a car accident left you with a back injury, a post about lifting weights, riding ATV or waterskiing may contradict your assertions.
Surveillance and Investigations
Insurance companies and defense attorneys are known to closely monitor the social media activity of claimants. They are searching for any evidence that may contradict your injury claims. Social media passwords are now frequently sought by defendants in discovery, should your case be litigated. Pictures, videos, or updates that show you participating in activities that you claim to be incapable of due to your injuries can be detrimental to your case. Even a simple picture of you smiling at a family gathering or on vacation can be taken out of context and used to undermine your pain and suffering claims.
We have even had instances where employees of a defense firm posed as would-be friends seeking our client to grant “friend” status. Be wary.
Privacy Settings Aren’t Foolproof
Friends, Family, and the Courts
Setting your profiles to “private” may give you a sense of security, but it’s essential to remember that even if your connections are trustworthy, they can still see your posts. Friends and family can be subpoenaed by the opposing party to testify or share your posts, making privacy settings somewhat moot in a legal context. What you share privately today might not stay private during a legal dispute. Insurers have grown increasingly aggressive in demanding passwords to even your private account, and there is no assurance that the judge assigned to your case won’t grant the defendant access to your “private” posts.
Deleting Your Social Media Posts Doesn’t Always Help
If you realize that a social media post could harm your personal injury case, deleting it is not a guaranteed solution. Opposing parties may have already taken screenshots, saved web pages, or archived your content. Even if the original post is gone, remnants of it can resurface and be used as evidence.
Your Words Matter
The impact of social media on personal injury claims is significant. Understanding what not to share on social media is crucial for safeguarding your case. To navigate the complexities of personal injury claims and ensure your rights are protected, it’s imperative to consult with experienced personal injury and auto accident attorneys. If you’re in Buffalo, Minnesota, turn to Kiernan Law for guidance and support. Contact us to have experts on your side, helping you secure the compensation you deserve. Your journey to a successful personal injury claim begins with a single call or message.
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